“It’s hard to even be frustrated”: Runner up Corey Heim disappointed by NASCAR’s ruling after losing potential title

NASCAR driver Corey Heim recently reflected on his performance in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Championship Race at Phoenix Raceway. Heim finished second to Ty Majeski, who secured his first Truck Series title.

Corey Heim pilots the #11 Toyota Tundra for Tricon Garage, competing in the NASCAR Truck Series. Heim could not secure this year's title as ThorSports Racing's Ty Majeski dominated throughout the race at Phoenix Raceway before driving down victory lane.

However, the Tricon Garage driver gave Majeski a run for his money until a late restart on lap 99 changed things. Heim was behind Layne Riggs on the inside line, and the former dipped below Riggs' #38 Ford right before the start-finish line, resulting in a pass-through penalty for Heim.

To Heim's fortune, a multi-car wreck at the back of the field brought out the yellow flag, allowing him to serve his penalty with the safety car still out. Following the end of the race, the Tricon Garage driver said (via Jayski):

“They were lights out and probably two-tenths better than me a lap at 100%. The unfortunate part is, I feel like we were pretty good. We were probably two-tenths better than the guys behind us. If you take them out of the equation, we were far and beyond the best truck."

“It’s hard to even be frustrated. What could I even have done at that point? Super proud of everyone at Tricon Garage. They put together a phenomenal 2024 campaign. Nothing to hang our heads about, we could have easily ended up on top. We finished one spot short, but it’s part of it,” he added.

Heim, who secured second place in the 2024 Truck Series, delivered a stellar performance this season, with consistent performances to show for nearly every race week. The #11 driver amassed 6 race wins, 18 top-ten, and 14 top-five finishes in 23 race starts.

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Corey Heim to return to Tricon Garage full-time for the 2025 Truck Series

During the playoffs media day on Thursday, Corey Heim and Tricon Garage revealed that the #11 driver will return to the team for the upcoming season. Heim, who was linked with a move to the Cup Series for 23XI Racing, has cleared the air on the subject.

His return to the #11 team would mark his third full-time season in the series with Tricon Garage. In their official press release, Corey Heim expressed his joy on returning to the team next season.

“I am excited to be back with TRICON for my third full-time year,” said Heim. “I have developed so much alongside this organization in the last two years, and we have made some incredible memories along the way. I can’t wait to continue this journey in 2025 with my No. 11 crew.”

Additionally, Tricon Garage's General Manager, Kevin Ray, also shed light on Heim's 'fortunate' return to the team.

“We’re extremely fortunate to get another year with Corey. His dedication to not only the No. 11 team, but the entire organization has elevated TRICON beyond measure in our team’s short history," Ray said.

Meanwhile, Heim continues to remain as a reserve driver for 23XI Racing in the Cup Series.